Populations & Sustainability Flashcards
What three phases will be seen in the growth of a new population over time?
- Slow growth
- Then exponential growth
- Then a stable state.
What is carrying capacity?
For a given species, the maximum population size supported by the ecosystem.
List the abiotic factors which can affect the growth of a population.
- Temperature
- Light
- Water availability
- Oxygen levels
- Carbon dioxide levels
- pH
List the biotic factors which can affect the growth of a population.
- Competition (interspecific + intraspecific)
- Predation
- Disease
What is conservation?
Active and sustainable human management of biological resources.
What is ex-situ conservation?
Conservation of endangered animal or plant species outside their natural habitats.
What is preservation?
Protection of an ecosystem so that it is undisturbed.
Why carry out conservation?
Economic, social and ethical reasons.
What is meant by a sustainable resource?
A renewable resource that is exploited in ways that allow it to be replenished so that it does not run out.
What are 2 examples of sustainable management?
- Timber production
- Commercial fishing
